There is need to invest in basic education in many African countries. I partnered with a university in Kenya to work on an education project in 2015 and 2016 for five months. One of the project activity was visiting primary and secondary schools in the country. We performed chemistry demonstrations to students and facilitated hands-on activities in order to inspire them to develop interest in science, encourage them to work hard in school and complete their education. It was heartwarming to see students excited about science and how much they appreciated the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities. Partnering with institutions and mentoring teachers and students will help improve student learning and quality of basic education.

At this very critical time, government at all levels need to really invest in building a robust system that will ensure equitable access to education by all. Education budget should no more be based on blanket assumptions, rather based on research reports and imperical evidences. If a girl child could walk up-to an hour before reaching school and same time returning, learning could hardly be effective. It's a pity that, politicians put their funds where it is not really needed, instead of investing the future of a nation. Radical approach need to be followed to address this menace.